Western Med training event proves popular and successful

Pictured is the group of surveyors who met for training in Palma
Pictured is the group of surveyors who met for training in Palma

A large and enthusiastic group of 20 plus IIMS member surveyors and non members arrived on the island of Mallorca for a two day training event in Palma on 28 and 29 April organised by the Western Mediterranean Small Craft Working Group under the leadership of John Walker. The event was once more timed to coincide with the rapidly growing and increasingly important Palma Superyacht Show.

The opening day was run by John Excell, IIMS Chairman of Yacht & Small Craft surveying, and was given over to an introduction to the IIMS Certifying Authority with advice and guidance as to what is required to become an MCA coding surveyor in the morning. After a splendid lunch at one of the show’s many nearby restaurants, the group reassembled for training in the afternoon on how to conduct tonnage measurements. Commencing with theory, John ran through the newly produced tonnage guidance manual on screen. Then despite inclement weather (most unusual for Palma at this time of the year), the group split in to three working groups and headed into the neighbouring STP yard to carry out some practical tonnage measurement training. John Walker had lined up three vessels for measurement. Measurements were taken and calculations made before the group headed back to the classroom to complete the exercise.

The following day dawned rather brighter and warmer. Mike Schwarz, IIMS CEO, gave an outdoor presentation within the show to delegates and other invited guests. In his talk, Mike spoke about the changing face of the Institute and, in particular, the importance of its 25th anniversary and Silver Jubilee year. In the second part of his presentation, he tackled the issue of surveyor standards and the constant need for IIMS members to continue to invest in themselves.

The afternoon was dedicated to small craft surveyor training. Andy Ridyard gave a fascinating presentation on lightning protection systems, how they work and why they are necessary. He followed this up by speaking about the mysteries and myths surrounding earth leaks.

It fell to Paul Hamill of Tides Marine to bring this absorbing training event to a conclusion. He spoke about the company’s well known range of products and their installation.

According to the feedback received from delegates, the event was clearly a success and one which is sure to be repeated again next year.

Don’t forget the date for the UK Small Craft Working Group ‘Super’ Training day which will be taking place in Portsmouth on 24 October. More details to follow.

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